SkillGym Conversation Simulation for new line managers

Testing will be conducted over a period of two months from the launch. Thanks for being part of it! The target audience for this learning offering is new, first time line managers, typically bands D, E and F. However, we have invited colleagues in a variety of roles for testing purposes. Please put yourself in the shoes of a colleague who is new to leading a team.

What is SkillGym?
SkillGym simulates real conversations a line manager is likely to have with their direct reports using a digital role play platform. It places the learner at the center of the conversation, such as a performance feedback discussion, in which the other party adapts their answers based on their personality and the course of the conversation. In less than 20 minutes, natural behaviors emerge and line managers can learn how to manage this type of complexity before facing it in real life. The learning is dedicated to developing conversations skills through practice and self-reflection.

How to get started?

1. Register: Get registered to participate in the Conversation Simulation per the instructions in the email from the Continuous PM mailbox

2. Practice: Once you’re logged-in, start with any of the available critical conversation scenarios (such as giving feedback, delegation, checking priorities); allow yourself at least 30 minutes each time

3. Reflect: Keep the following key topics/themes in mind as you go through the simulation. We encourage you to take brief notes and reflections of your experience, which you can bring with you to the two testing check-in sessions.

• User experience with the platform (ease of use, design, features, technical issues, etc.)
• Personal impact you experienced regarding your confidence in navigating different conversation styles and self-awareness
• Overall learning experience – practicing a dialogue exchange with digital characters, seeing progress, conversation content and scenarios, etc
• Consider if you would recommend this conversation simulation to new line manager colleagues

4. Continue to practice: Over the course of the next two months, regularly schedule time to try out each scenario; revisiting ones where you desired a different outcome and want to continue improving

How do I ‘schedule’ a virtual conversation with one of the characters?
You have two options:
– You can simply set aside time on your own calendar and begin a virtual conversation with one of the characters within the platform at any time.
– You can wait for the platform to invite you to schedule a conversation. The invitation will take you to an online doodle-style calendar where you can select your preferred date/time slot for scheduling the session. The system will record your preference and send you a calendar invitation and reminders.

Who do I contact with questions?
If you have a technical question or are experiencing a platform-related issue, please reach out to Maddy at KarthikMuniswamy_Damodaran@rcomext.com.

For other general questions, please contact Verena at Verena_Schaer@swissre.com and Martina at Martina_Zacher@swissre.com.

Want to learn more?
There are several tutorial videos in the ‘detail’ section. To get started, watch this 4-minute video to learn more about SkillGym and why practicing conversations matters.